How the Dallas Mavericks may have missed a golden opportunity to sign LeBron James in free agency

The Mavericks were reportedly on James’ initial shortlist but they are no longer considered a realistic option.

However, the Mavs would have had a much better chance of signing James if they had not made one trade earlier this year.

The Anthony Davis decision that cost the Dallas Mavericks a shot at LeBron James

LeBron James is waiting to see what his shortlisted teams can do in the trade market before deciding where to go.

Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor has reported that James wants to play with either Anthony Davis or Kyrie Irving.

He wrote: “Sources believe LeBron James is slow-playing his decision to see if any of his suitors can find a way to land Anthony Davis or Kyrie Irving.”

James won NBA titles with both players: Davis on the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020 and Irving on the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2018.

However, Davis (Washington Wizards) and Irving (Mavericks) are under contract with other teams and not on the trade block.

It seems unlikely that LeBron will play with either player next season, but he could have played with both on the Mavericks.

It was only last season that the Mavs had both Davis and Irving on their roster before trading the big man to the Wizards.

If only they had kept the former LA Laker, James may have been convinced to join his two ex-teammates in Dallas.

Not only would this have provided box office entertainment, but the three stars would have complemented each other perfectly.

The Mavericks also have several other quality players who could have helped them win their first title since 2011.

How the Dallas Mavericks’ lineup could have looked with LeBron James

The Dallas Mavericks would have been among the title favorites with LeBron James and Anthony Davis on their roster.

Kyrie Irving is returning from a long-term ACL injury, but his shooting and ball-handling should remain world-class.

Meanwhile, Cooper Flagg is expected to challenge Victor Wembanyama as the face of the NBA over the next decade.

The 19-year-old is undoubtedly a special talent, averaging 21 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game as a rookie.

James and Davis are an established duo, while Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford would provide superb big man depth.

Everyone knows that James needs to be surrounded by shooters to excel, and Max Christie and Klay Thompson are exactly that.

With four stars and a plethora of quality role players, the Mavericks could have won the championship in this scenario.